Page 35 - SafeLinkEvaluation

Some respondents gave more detail about their views, which were again all positive. They said it was unique, much needed, and effective:
Support worker: It is such a nice feeling to know that
services like yours exist that really take time to make sure people with such complex needs can have the same opportunities as others. She would never have reported what happened without you. Talking to the police just wasn’t something I ever thought she’d feel ready to do. She just thought they wouldn’t believe her. When she got bad news from the police, you explained it in a way I would never have been able to, with such empathy and care, and I think that completely changed how she dealt with that difficult ending.
Other services emphasised how much
the LD ISVA helped clients through various processes, such as reporting to the police and claiming CIC:
Support worker: You have helped
her to apply for compensation, really thinking about the risks it might cause her having so much money, ensuring she has all the right support in place. She never would have known about this if you hadn’t explained
it over those few meetings. All the things you have done with her have really transformed how she sees what happened and I think she is beginning to feel like people do want to listen.
are advisor (Bristol Community Links, Central Drop-in): The LD ISVA has helped them in many different ways. She has spent time and been patient in getting to know the service users. She has offered emotional support and explained police processes in an accessible way. Without the support from Safelink, the service users would not have gained the confidence and felt empowered to speak up for themselves.
Detective: Working with some of the most vulnerable victims, it is reassuring to have Safelink’s LD service involved in victim care.
Clients also thought the ISVA worked well with other services providing care and support.
Alan: She’s worked with police, mental health, my advocate...my advocate has been very impressed with her.
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